Introduction
Porcellio scaber is one of the most adaptable and rewarding isopod species in the hobby. Known as the rough woodlouse, P. scaber comes in a range of stunning colour morphs — and the Aenaria is one of the most sought-after. Hardy, fast-breeding, and endlessly characterful, they are a fantastic choice for keepers of all experience levels.
About Porcellio Scaber - Aenaria
The Aenaria morph takes its name from the ancient Roman name for the island of Ischia, off the coast of Naples — a nod to the warm Mediterranean origins of this stunning variety. Displaying a warm orange-brown and grey mottled patterning, Aenaria are visually striking yet incredibly tough. P. scaber morphs are among the most adaptable isopods in the hobby and tolerate a wide range of conditions with ease.
Enclosure
- A well-ventilated tub or tank with good airflow
- Secure lid — P. scaber are active and will explore any gaps
- A moisture gradient is ideal — moist on one side, drier on the other, though they lean towards the drier end
- Cork bark, rotten wood, and leaf litter make excellent hides and enrichment
- See our full How to Set Up an Isopod Enclosure guide for a step-by-step walkthrough
Substrate
- Organic compost as your base — 5–10cm deep
- Worm castings — nutrition and microfauna
- Leaf litter — staple food and structure on the surface
- Rotten wood — hides and slow-release food
- Cuttlebone on the surface for calcium
P. scaber tolerates drier substrate than many other species — avoid permanently wet conditions.
Temperature & Humidity
- Temperature: 18–28°C — very tolerant; breeds well at UK room temperatures
- Humidity: Low to moderate — maintain a damp corner but allow a dry area
- One of the most temperature-tolerant isopods in the hobby
Feeding
- Leaf litter as the staple — oak, beech, and magnolia
- Vegetables: courgette, carrot, sweet potato, cucumber — remove within 48 hours
- Protein: fish flakes or dried shrimp 1–2 times per week
- Calcium: cuttlebone and crushed oyster shell always available
- Botanicals: enjoy foraging on Bakuli pods, Alder cones, and leaf litter bundles
Breeding
P. scaber are fast and prolific breeders. Females carry eggs in a brood pouch and release fully formed mancae. Colonies establish quickly and will grow steadily with warmth, food, and stable conditions. A great species if you want a productive colony without a lot of fuss.
Tips for Success
- One of the best beginner species — very forgiving of mistakes
- Avoid overwatering — P. scaber do not thrive in permanently damp substrate
- Add springtails to keep the enclosure balanced
- Highly active and surface-visible — great for observation
Quick Reference
| Care Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Porcellio scaber |
| Morph | Aenaria |
| Temperature | 18–28°C |
| Humidity | Low–moderate |
| Substrate | Organic compost, leaf litter, rotten wood — 5–10cm |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veg, protein, calcium always available |
| Breeding | Fast |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
Final Thoughts
Porcellio scaber Aenaria are a brilliant species for any keeper — tough, beautiful, and easy to establish. Whether you’re building your first bioactive enclosure or adding to an established collection, they’re a reliable and rewarding choice. Shop our Aenaria listing — UK-bred with our Live Arrival Guarantee.